Three Reasons Why Divorces are Common at the Beginning of the Year

by | Jan 2, 2025

January is often referred to as “Divorce Month,” but why? The start of a new year brings with it a sense of renewal, reflection, and self-determination. For many, it’s a time to set goals, embrace change, and take steps toward happiness. This mindset extends to relationships, with some individuals realizing that staying in an unfulfilling marriage is not part of their vision for the future.

The “New Year, New You” Mentality

The New Year represents fresh beginnings. After a season of holiday reflection, many people feel ready to make difficult but necessary decisions about their relationships. If a marriage has been strained, the new year can serve as a catalyst for taking action and seeking a path that prioritizes personal well-being and happiness.

The Holiday Factor

Many clients have shared that they wanted to file for divorce earlier in the year but postponed the decision due to upcoming holidays. The idea of disrupting Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas for their children or family can be daunting. Once January arrives and the holiday season is behind them, they feel a sense of readiness to move forward and begin a new chapter.

Financial Considerations

January also presents strategic financial advantages for some individuals considering divorce. Some wish to file taxes separately, while others may have received year-end bonuses they prefer to keep out of the marital settlement. These financial factors can influence the timing of a divorce filing, making January a practical choice.

Divorce is a Year-Round Decision

While January is a common time for divorce filings, the reality is that people make this difficult decision throughout the year. No one enters a marriage expecting it to end in divorce, and the emotional toll of making such a choice is significant. At Law Elevated, we recognize that each family’s journey is unique. Some clients seek education about their options, while others come prepared with a plan that we help them execute. Regardless of the timing, our role is to offer support, guidance, and advocacy at every step.

A Holistic Approach to Divorce

At Law Elevated, we understand that divorce is more than just a legal process—it’s a life transition. That’s why we created The Collective, a unique approach that connects clients with trusted professionals, including therapists, financial advisors, personal trainers, and nutritionists. Our goal is to ensure that when our clients finalize their divorce, they feel stronger, more confident, and ready to embrace their next chapter with clarity and resilience.

Keeping Children at the Forefront

For those navigating divorce with children, our top priority is protecting their well-being. The best approach is to keep kids out of legal conflicts and reassure them that both parents love and support them. We strongly discourage using children as leverage in disputes and actively intervene if we see this happening. Divorce is challenging, but children should never bear the burden of adult decisions.

Taking the First Step

Starting the divorce process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Law Elevated, we guide our clients every step of the way, from gathering necessary financial documents to understanding legal rights and responsibilities. We provide compassionate, knowledgeable support, ensuring that every client feels heard, understood, and empowered.

If you’re considering divorce or need guidance on your next steps, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with us today. The hardest part is making that first call—but know that when you do, we’ll be here to listen and support you.

Your partner in peace of mind,
Nonie

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